A four-point home inspection is a quick and affordable way to assess the condition of essential elements of a home. Many insurance companies require you to get this type of inspection before they hand out a policy, making a four-point inspection essential when buying or selling a home.
Roofing, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC are the four pieces of a four-point home inspection. These can be financial pain points if something were to go wrong. Insurance companies want to evaluate a home's risk before deciding what they will and won't cover. It also helps sellers determine what to fix before they list.
Roofing: In places with weather extremes, like here in Florida, the roof of a home has a significant impact on risk for insurers. It is a structural feature of a home. It keeps water out and cold air in. Signs of leaks, damage, and even the shape of a roof can lead to an inspector failing a roof.
Electrical: When an inspector looks at the electrical system in your home, they will keep an eye out for recalled panels and outdated systems. These issues are often in older homes built to different codes. Aluminum wires, knob-and-tube, and similar outdated systems can lead to a property not passing this part of the inspection.
Plumbing: The plumbing portion of the inspection looks at the pipes to determine if they are leaking or have an increased risk of bursting based on their materials. If there is a leak, or the plumbing used is known to be at a higher risk, the home may not qualify for water damage coverage.
HVAC: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system rounds out the four-point inspection. Inspectors will look for signs of leaks, check that the system works, and verify the age of the system. It is important to note that window A/C units, fireplaces, and oil-burning furnaces are not included.
Whether you plan to buy a home or are selling one, a four-point home inspection is a base to gauge a property's condition. Most insurance companies require one, but it does not replace a more comprehensive inspection often required when closing. Those inspections cover everything from appliances to windows and doors.
At Team Hancock, our experts can help you when buying or selling your home. We will help you understand all the inspections and other requirements you need. Call (239) 289-4272 or contact us today.
